Thomas Albert Koehler

Thomas A. Koehler, age 71, of Jackson passed away Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, surrounded by his family.

He was born May 28, 1948 in Cape Girardeau, the third of six children, to Henry C. “Clem” and Dora L. “Johnny” Schaefer Koehler.  He and Shirley Schuessler were married December 30, 1993 in Cape Girardeau. 

Tom was a 1968 graduate of Jackson High School.  He held many different jobs throughout his life, but mainly worked as a carpenter and wood craftsman.  Many who knew him considered him a master story teller, music lover, and avid reader.  In his later years, he was most proud of his “Uncle Tom” and “Silly Pa-Pa” status.  He loved spending time with family and friends, especially outdoors. 

Loving survivors include his wife of nearly 26 years, Shirley Koehler of Jackson; five children Teresa Tanner (Kenny Spradling) of Jackson, Connie (Joe) Farrow of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, Angel (Matt) Wright of Farmington, Missouri, Tina (Jeff) Purvis of Nixa, Missouri and Brian Conrad of Fruitland; ten grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; siblings, Mary Ann (Jim) Cotner of Troy, Illinois; Kenny Koehler of Jackson; Phyllis Dunn of Astell, Georgia; Roger (Margie) Koehler of Buchanan, Tennessee; Diana Johnson of Jackson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Thomas Koehler II.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 at Deerfield Lodge, 6275 County Road 313, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.  Meat and drinks will be provided; bring your favorite pot-luck dish.

The Koehler family appreciates memorial contributions to McCombs Funeral Home to assist in payment of funeral expenses. 

McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson is in charge of arrangements.

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